After having been a pioneer in the wine industry for many years for other people, John and his wife Ann, from the Tyrrell family, decided to start their own venture. After much research, they decided to move to the Macedon Ranges, Australia's coldest grape growing region. The aim was to make a sparkling wine that would be set apart from those to follow by way of its yeastiness and complexity.

After nearly 30 years, Hanging Rock is now the largest winery in the Macedon Ranges and continues to make its unique style of sparkling wine which is constantly awarded among the countries best.

John believes strongly in giving back to the industry that has given so much to him especially through his work as a wine judge and many local, state and national industry committee positions.